Group Reflections

At our gathering on June 23, attendees were invited to reflect on a variety of questions. People were invited to respond to any questions that resonated with them, with as many answers as they liked. Sticky note replies were anonymous.

This was not a planning activity, but rather a dreaming one. The idea was to begin the process of opening up thoughts and discussions in these directions, should the people of The Gayton Kirk choose to put into action any of their learning.

Below are the answers received.

BIG DREAMS

·        Have discussion groups that include all diversities

·        Learning how to use nonverbal communication well

SMALL CHANGES

·        Have a rainbow colored bench

·        Paint a rainbow bench

·        Alternative activities (like puzzles) in the worship space

·        Participate in groups that are exploring these topics

·        More Zoom classes

·        If a book that we are studying is in Audible, please let us know.

·        Learning ways to welcome those who are different

·        Small rainbows on the inside of churches help me feel safe!  Even if they’re not outside, inside rainbows help confirm that I am welcome as I am.

WHAT INSPIRED ME TODAY?

·        Honest talk from speakers

·        To know that there are church / denominations that are inclusive

·        Hopefulness of being inclusive & welcoming

·        The statements of the testimonies in the video

·        Open-minded attitudes to church change inspired me

·        The openness to change - seeing it as perhaps the call of God to this moment’s context

·        I find it very unfortunate that all some churches are so critical of the transgender community.  So glad the Kirk is not like that.

·        Testimonies

WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

·        I can articulate/implement a larger welcome

·        Continue learning / going against m bent toward introversion & commit to speaking out & engaging with others.

·        I can seek to have a good attitude

WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO WELCOME?

·        I would like to welcome the shy.

HOW COULD WE BE MORE WELCOMING?

·        Everyone without judgement

·        I can be natural when welcoming.

·        By being more hopeful.

·        I do believe strongly that the Gayton Kirk is by far the most welcoming church I have ever attended.  Thank you!!

ARE THERE OBSTACLES TO OVERCOME?

·        Perhaps some obstacles to overcome are some people’s feelings and discriminatory obstacles.

·        What I want to do is difficult for me

·        Our love of tradition as an institution is very strong.

·        Outdated ideas

·        Misinterpretation of scripture

·        Does anyone here really know what younger families need?  (I think we only had 2 people under 70 in today’s service.)